Poly(phenylene ether) composition and article

ABSTRACT

A composition includes specific amounts of a poly(phenylene ether), a radial block copolymer, a polystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene) polystyrene triblock copolymer, an organophosphate ester, a hydrocarbon resin, and benzoin. The composition exhibits a desirable balance of multiaxial impact strength, light transmittance, and optical clarity, and it can be used to mold a variety of articles including animal cages, ink cartridges, tubes, pipes, and pipe fittings.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 13/626,953, filed Sep. 26, 2012, which is incorporated hereinby reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Compositions containing poly(phenylene ether)s and styrenic blockcopolymers are known and valued for their improved properties relativeto either resin type alone. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,660,531 toLauchlan et al. describes blends of “polyphenylene oxide resin” withstyrene-butadiene block copolymers and teaches that the blends exhibit auseful combination of low-temperature melt processability, high impactstrength, and high flexural strength. As another example, U.S. Pat. No.5,234,994 to Shiraki et al. describes blends of a “polyphenylene ether”,a polystyrene, and a block copolymer of a vinyl aromatic hydrocarbon anda conjugated diene. The blends are described as offering improvedtransparency, impact resistance, surface hardness, heat resistance, andgloss. As yet another example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,274,670 to Adedeji et al.describes blends of a “polyphenylene ether resin”, a non-elastomericstyrenic resin, and an unsaturated elastomeric styrenic block copolymer.When the non-elastomeric styrenic resin is a styrene-butadiene blockcopolymer having at least 50 weight percent styrene, the compositionsare semi-transparent and exhibit enhanced processability.

Despite these advances, poly(phenylene ether) compositions with highlight transmittance, low haze, and high impact-resistance remain anelusive target. Although the use of optical enhancing agents and flameretardants can improve light transmittance and reduce haze, they alsoreduce impact strength. There is therefore a need in the packaging andhealthcare industries, among others, for poly(phenylene ether)compositions that exhibit an improved balance of high lighttransmittance, low haze, and high impact strength.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF EMBODIMENTS OF THE INVENTION

One embodiment is a composition comprising: 30 to 60 weight percent of apoly(phenylene ether); 10 to 40 weight percent of a radial blockcopolymer of an alkenyl aromatic monomer comprising styrene and aconjugated diene comprising butadiene; wherein the radial blockcopolymer comprises 60 to 75 weight percent of poly(alkenyl aromatic)content and has a number average molecular weight of 50,000 to 70,000atomic mass units; 5 to 20 weight percent of apolystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrene triblock copolymerhaving a polystyrene content based on the weight of the triblockcopolymer of 55 to 80 weight percent; 5 to 20 weight percent of anorganophosphate ester selected from the group consisting of resorcinolbis(diphenyl phosphate), triphenyl phosphate, alkylated triphenylphosphate, and combinations thereof; a hydrocarbon resin selected fromthe group consisting of hydrogenated alicyclic hydrocarbon resins,hydrogenated terpene resins, and combinations thereof; wherein thehydrocarbon resin has a softening point of 120 to 180° C. measuredaccording to ASTM E28; wherein the hydrocarbon resin is present in anamount effective to provide the composition with a multiaxial impactstrength of at least 25 joules, measured at 23° C. according to ASTMD3763-08a; and 0.05 to 2 weight percent of benzoin; wherein thecomposition comprises less than 0.5 weight percent tridecyl phosphite;wherein the composition comprises less than or equal to 1 weight percentof fillers; and wherein all weight percents are based on the totalweight of the composition, unless a different weight basis is specified.

Another embodiment is a composition comprising: 40 to 50 weight percentof a poly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene ether); 20 to 30 weight percent ofa radial block copolymer of styrene and butadiene; wherein the radialblock copolymer comprises 60 to 75 weight percent of polystyrene contentand has a number average molecular weight of 50,000 to 70,000 atomicmass units; 8 to 17 weight percent of apolystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrene triblock copolymer;wherein the polystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrene triblockcopolymer having a polystyrene content of 60 to 75 weight percent basedon the weight of the polystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrenetriblock copolymer; 7 to 17 weight percent of resorcinol bis(diphenylphosphate); 3 to 8 weight percent of a hydrogenated terpene resin havinga softening point of 145 to 160° C.; and 0.05 to 2 weight percent ofbenzoin; wherein the composition comprises less than or equal to 0.3weight percent tridecyl phosphite; wherein the composition comprisesless than or equal to 1 weight percent of fillers; and wherein allweight percents are based on the total weight of the composition, unlessa different weight basis is specified.

Another embodiment is an article comprising one of the compositionsdescribed herein.

These and other embodiments are described in detail below.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

The present inventor has determined that an improved balance of highlight transmittance, low haze, and high impact strength is exhibited bya composition comprising: 30 to 60 weight percent of a poly(phenyleneether); 10 to 40 weight percent of a radial block copolymer of analkenyl aromatic monomer comprising styrene and a conjugated dienecomprising butadiene; wherein the radial block copolymer comprises 60 to75 weight percent of poly(alkenyl aromatic) content and has a numberaverage molecular weight of 50,000 to 70,000 atomic mass units; 5 to 20weight percent of a polystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrenetriblock copolymer having a polystyrene content based on the weight ofthe triblock copolymer of 55 to 80 weight percent; 5 to 20 weightpercent of an organophosphate ester selected from the group consistingof resorcinol bis(diphenyl phosphate), triphenyl phosphate, alkylatedtriphenyl phosphate, and combinations thereof; a hydrocarbon resinselected from the group consisting of hydrogenated alicyclic hydrocarbonresins, hydrogenated terpene resins, and combinations thereof; whereinthe hydrocarbon resin has a softening point of 120 to 180° C. measuredaccording to ASTM E28; wherein the hydrocarbon resin is present in anamount effective to provide the composition with a multiaxial impactstrength of at least 25 joules, measured at 23° C. according to ASTMD3763-08a; and 0.05 to 2 weight percent of benzoin; wherein thecomposition comprises less than 0.5 weight percent tridecyl phosphite;wherein the composition comprises less than or equal to 1 weight percentof fillers; and wherein all weight percents are based on the totalweight of the composition, unless a different weight basis is specified.Specifically, the composition can exhibit a multiaxial impact strengthof at least 25 joules measured at 23° C. according to ASTM D3763-08, ahaze of less than or equal to 15 percent measured at 23° C. according toASTM D1003-00 at a thickness of 3.2 millimeters, and a transmittance ofat least 75 percent measured at 23° C. according to ASTM D1003-00 at athickness of 3.2 millimeters. Within the limit of at least 25 joules,the multiaxial impact strength can be 25 to 60 joules, specifically 30to 55 joules, more specifically 35 to 55 joules. Within the limit ofless than or equal to 15 percent, the haze can be 2 to 15 percent,specifically 2 to 10 percent, more specifically 3 to 5 percent. Withinthe limit of at least 75 percent, the transmittance can be 75 to 85percent, specifically 77 to 82 percent, more specifically 80 to 82percent.

The composition comprises a poly(phenylene ether). Suitablepoly(phenylene ether)s include those comprising repeating structuralunits having the formula

wherein each occurrence of Z¹ is independently halogen, unsubstituted orsubstituted C₁-C₁₂ hydrocarbyl provided that the hydrocarbyl group isnot tertiary hydrocarbyl, C₁-C₁₂ hydrocarbylthio, C₁-C₁₂ hydrocarbyloxy,or C₂-C₁₂ halohydrocarbyloxy wherein at least two carbon atoms separatethe halogen and oxygen atoms; and each occurrence of Z² is independentlyhydrogen, halogen, unsubstituted or substituted C₁-C₁₂ hydrocarbylprovided that the hydrocarbyl group is not tertiary hydrocarbyl, C₁-C₁₂hydrocarbylthio, C₁-C₁₂ hydrocarbyloxy, or C₂-C₁₂ halohydrocarbyloxywherein at least two carbon atoms separate the halogen and oxygen atoms.As used herein, the term “hydrocarbyl”, whether used by itself, or as aprefix, suffix, or fragment of another term, refers to a residue thatcontains only carbon and hydrogen. The residue can be aliphatic oraromatic, straight-chain, cyclic, bicyclic, branched, saturated, orunsaturated. It can also contain combinations of aliphatic, aromatic,straight chain, cyclic, bicyclic, branched, saturated, and unsaturatedhydrocarbon moieties. However, when the hydrocarbyl residue is describedas substituted, it may, optionally, contain heteroatoms over and abovethe carbon and hydrogen members of the substituent residue. Thus, whenspecifically described as substituted, the hydrocarbyl residue can alsocontain one or more carbonyl groups, amino groups, hydroxyl groups, orthe like, or it can contain heteroatoms within the backbone of thehydrocarbyl residue. As one example, Z¹ can be a di-n-butylaminomethylgroup formed by reaction of a terminal 3,5-dimethyl-1,4-phenyl groupwith the di-n-butylamine component of an oxidative polymerizationcatalyst.

In some embodiments, the poly(phenylene ether) has an intrinsicviscosity of 0.25 to 1 deciliter per gram measured at 25° C. inchloroform. Within this range, the poly(phenylene ether) intrinsicviscosity can be 0.3 to 0.65 deciliter per gram, more specifically 0.35to 0.5 deciliter per gram, even more specifically 0.4 to 0.5 deciliterper gram.

In some embodiments, the poly(phenylene ether) is essentially free ofincorporated diphenoquinone residues. In this context, “essentiallyfree” means that fewer than 1 weight percent of poly(phenylene ether)molecules comprise the residue of a diphenoquinone. As described in U.S.Pat. No. 3,306,874 to Hay, synthesis of poly(phenylene ether) byoxidative polymerization of monohydric phenol yields not only thedesired poly(phenylene ether) but also a diphenoquinone as side product.For example, when the monohydric phenol is 2,6-dimethylphenol,3,3′,5,5′-tetramethyldiphenoquinone is generated. Typically, thediphenoquinone is “reequilibrated” into the poly(phenylene ether) (i.e.,the diphenoquinone is incorporated into the poly(phenylene ether)structure) by heating the polymerization reaction mixture to yield apoly(phenylene ether) comprising terminal or internal diphenoquinoneresidues). For example, when a poly(phenylene ether) is prepared byoxidative polymerization of 2,6-dimethylphenol to yieldpoly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene ether) and3,3′,5,5′-tetramethyldiphenoquinone, reequilibration of the reactionmixture can produce a poly(phenylene ether) with terminal and internalresidues of incorporated diphenoquinone. However, such reequilibrationreduces the molecular weight of the poly(phenylene ether). Accordingly,when a higher molecular weight poly(phenylene ether) is desired, it canbe useful to separate the diphenoquinone from the poly(phenylene ether)rather than reequilibrating the diphenoquinone into the poly(phenyleneether) chains. Such a separation can be achieved, for example, byprecipitation of the poly(phenylene ether) in a solvent or solventmixture in which the poly(phenylene ether) is insoluble and thediphenoquinone is soluble. For example, when a poly(phenylene ether) isprepared by oxidative polymerization of 2,6-dimethylphenol in toluene toyield a toluene solution comprising poly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenyleneether) and 3,3′,5,5′-tetramethyldiphenoquinone, apoly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene ether) essentially free ofdiphenoquinone can be obtained by mixing 1 volume of the toluenesolution with 1 to 4 volumes of methanol or a methanol/water mixture.Alternatively, the amount of diphenoquinone side-product generatedduring oxidative polymerization can be minimized (e.g., by initiatingoxidative polymerization in the presence of less than 10 weight percentof the monohydric phenol and adding at least 95 weight percent of themonohydric phenol over the course of at least 50 minutes), and/or thereequilibration of the diphenoquinone into the poly(phenylene ether)chain can be minimized (e.g., by isolating the poly(phenylene ether) nomore than 200 minutes after termination of oxidative polymerization).These approaches are described in U.S. Patent Application PublicationNo. US 2009/0211967 A1 of Delsman et al. In an alternative approachutilizing the temperature-dependent solubility of diphenoquinone intoluene, a toluene solution containing diphenoquinone and poly(phenyleneether) can be adjusted to a temperature of about 25° C., at whichdiphenoquinone is poorly soluble but the poly(phenylene ether) issoluble, and the insoluble diphenoquinone can be removed by solid-liquidseparation (e.g., filtration).

In some embodiments, the poly(phenylene ether) comprises2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene ether units, 2,3,6-trimethyl-1,4-phenyleneether units, or a combination thereof. In some embodiments, thepoly(phenylene ether) is a poly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene ether). Insome embodiments, the poly(phenylene ether) comprises apoly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene ether) having an intrinsic viscosity of0.3 to 0.65 deciliter per gram, more specifically 0.35 to 0.5 deciliterper gram, even more specifically 0.4 to 0.5 deciliter per gram, measuredat 25° C. in chloroform.

The poly(phenylene ether) can comprise molecules havingaminoalkyl-containing end group(s), typically located in a positionortho to the hydroxy group. Also frequently present aretetramethyldiphenoquinone (TMDQ) end groups, typically obtained from2,6-dimethylphenol-containing reaction mixtures in whichtetramethyldiphenoquinone by-product is present. The poly(phenyleneether) can be in the form of a homopolymer, a copolymer, a graftcopolymer, an ionomer, or a block copolymer, as well as combinationsthereof. In some embodiments, the composition comprises less than orequal to 0.5 weight percent (i.e., 0 to 0.5 weight percent) of apoly(phenylene ether)-polysiloxane block copolymer. Within this limit,the maximum amount of poly(phenylene ether)-polysiloxane block copolymercan be 0.1 weight percent. In some embodiments, the composition excludespoly(phenylene ether)-polysiloxane block copolymer.

The composition comprises the poly(phenylene ether) in an amount of 30to 60 weight percent, based on the total weight of the composition.Within this range, the poly(phenylene ether) amount can be 35 to 55weight percent, more specifically 40 to 50 weight percent.

In addition to the poly(phenylene ether), the composition comprises aradial block copolymer of an alkenyl aromatic monomer and a conjugateddiene. As used herein, the term “radial block copolymer” refers to abranched polymer comprising poly(conjugated diene) blocks, poly(alkenylaromatic) blocks, and the residue of a coupling agent that acts as abranching point or radius of the radial block copolymer. Moreparticularly, in the radial block copolymer structure, multiple chainsof the poly(conjugated diene) polymer, usually three or more, are eachcovalently bound at one end to the residue of a coupling agent andcovalently bound at the other end to a block of the poly(alkenylaromatic). In some embodiments, the radial block copolymer consists ofthe poly(conjugated diene) blocks, the poly(alkenyl aromatic) blocks,and the residue of the coupling agent. For example, the radial blockcopolymer can exclude residues derived from other polymerizablemonomers.

The alkenyl aromatic monomer used to form the radial block copolymer canhave the structure

wherein R¹ and R² each independently represent a hydrogen atom, a C₁-C₈alkyl group, or a C₂-C₈ alkenyl group; R³ and R⁷ each independentlyrepresent a hydrogen atom, a C₁-C₈ alkyl group, a chlorine atom, or abromine atom; and R⁴-R⁶ each independently represent a hydrogen atom, aC₁-C₈ alkyl group, or a C₂-C₈ alkenyl group; or R³ and R⁴ are takentogether with the central aromatic ring to form a naphthyl group, or R⁴and R⁵ are taken together with the central aromatic ring to form anaphthyl group. Suitable alkenyl aromatic monomers include, for example,styrene, chlorostyrenes such as p-chlorostyrene, methylstyrenes such asalpha-methylstyrene and p-methylstyrene, and combinations thereof. Insome embodiments, the alkenyl aromatic monomer is styrene.

The conjugated diene used to form the radial block copolymer can be, forexample, 1,3-butadiene, 2-methyl-1,3-butadiene, 2-chloro-1,3-butadiene,2,3-dimethyl-1,3-butadiene, 1,3-pentadiene, 1,3-hexadiene, andcombinations thereof. In some embodiments, the conjugated diene is1,3-butadiene. In some embodiments, the conjugated diene is2-methyl-1,3-butadiene (isoprene).

The coupling agent can be any compound capable of joining at least threeblock copolymers. Examples of such compounds are multivinyl aromaticcompounds, multiepoxide compounds (including epoxidized soybean oils),multiisocyanate compounds, multiimine compounds, multialdehydecompounds, multiketone compounds, multihalide compounds, multianhydridecompounds, multiester compounds, and combinations thereof. The amount ofcoupling agent is typically 0.1 to 1 weight percent based on the weightof the radial block copolymer.

In some embodiments, the radial block copolymer comprises a poly(alkenylaromatic) content of 50 to 70 weight percent, specifically 60 to 70weight percent, more specifically 65 to 70 weight percent, based on theweight of the radial block copolymer. Poly(alkenyl aromatic) content canbe determined by proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (¹HNMR).

In some embodiments, the radial block copolymer has a number averagemolecular weight of 50,000 to 70,000 atomic mass units. Within thisrange, the number average molecular weight can be 57,000 to 67,000atomic mass units. In some embodiments, the radial block copolymer has aweight average molecular weight of 130,000 to 170,000 atomic mass units,specifically 140,000 to 160,000 atomic mass units. In some embodiments,the radial block copolymer has a polydispersity (weight averagemolecular weight divided by number average molecular weight) of 1.94 to2.98.

A gel permeation chromatography method for determining the molecularweight characteristics is as follows. A 20 milligram sample of blockcopolymer is dissolved in 20 milliliters chloroform with 2 parts perthousand by weight toluene (as a flow marker). After the block copolymeris dissolved, the sample is ready to be analyzed by gel permeationchromatography with detection at 254 nanometers. The chromatographyequipment includes a Hewlett Packard HPLC 1100 series chromatographequipped with a PL gel 5 micrometer*10³ Å column, a PL gel 5micrometer*10⁵ Å column, and a 500 Å Styragel packing pre-column Thecolumns are maintained at 35° C. during the analysis. The injectionvolume is 75 microliters, and injection samples are pre-filtered througha 0.45 micrometer “greenband” filter. The eluent is chloroform and therun time is 16 minutes. Data in the polystyrene molecular weight rangeof 2,000 to 1,000,000 atomic mass units (AMU) is used to calculatevalues of number average molecular weight and weight average molecularfor the block copolymers. The analysis is calibrated with polystyrenemonodisperse calibration standards, such as Polymer LaboratoriesEasivial Standards Part No. PL12541A.

In some embodiments, the radial block copolymer is not hydrogenated(that is, it is “unhydrogenated”). Specifically, residual aliphaticunsaturation in the poly(conjugated diene) block resulting frompolymerization of the conjugated diene is not reduced by hydrogenation.

In some embodiments, the radial block copolymer is less than 5 percentcrosslinked, based on the total number of aliphatic carbon-carbon doublebonds in the radial block copolymer. Specifically, the radial blockcopolymer is not intentionally crosslinked by treatment with radiationor chemical agents capable of forming covalent crosslinks between thepoly(conjugated diene) blocks of different radial block copolymermolecules.

Methods of preparing radial block copolymers are known in the art andinclude the methods described in, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 3,281,383to Zelinski et al., U.S. Pat. No. 3,639,517 to Kitchen et al., U.S. Pat.No. 4,180,530 to Bi et al., and U.S. Pat. No. 6,127,487 to Ahmed et al.Radial block copolymers are also commercially available as K-RESIN fromChevron Phillips Chemical Company, including KK38, KR01, KR03, and KR05.

In some embodiments, the radial block copolymer has a polystyrenecontent of 65 to 70 weight percent, a polybutadiene content of 30 to 35weight percent, a number average molecular weight of 57,000 to 67,000atomic mass units, a weight average molecular weight of 130,000 to170,000 atomic mass units, and a polydispersity of 1.94 to 2.98. In someembodiments, this radial block copolymer comprises a first polystyreneblock with a first number average molecular weight and a secondpolystyrene block with a second number average molecular weight that isat least two times the first number average molecular weight. Radialblock copolymers described in this paragraph can be prepared accordingto the method of U.S. Pat. No. 3,281,383 to Kitchen et al. In someembodiments, the radial block copolymer has 20 to 30 weight percent ofthe residue of 1,4-addition of butadiene, and 2 to 12 weight percent ofthe residue of 1,2-addition of butadiene (both based on the weight ofthe radial block copolymer), and a ratio of 1,4-addition to 1,2-additionof 2.5:1 to 5:1. In some embodiments of the radial block copolymer,among the residue of 1,4-addition of butadiene the ratio of cis to transdouble bonds is 1:1 to 2:1. A suitable example of such a radial blockcopolymer is K-RESIN KK38 from Chevron Phillips, having a polystyrenecontent of about 68 weight percent, a polybutadiene content of about 32weight percent, a number average molecular weight of about 63,000, aweight average molecular weight of about 149,000, a polydispersity ofabout 2.4, and a melt flow rate of about 9 grams per 10 minutes measuredat 200° C. and 5 kilograms load according to ASTM D1238-10. K-RESIN KK38has about 25 weight percent of the residue of 1,4-addition of butadiene,and about 7 weight percent of the residue of 1,2-addition of butadiene,corresponding to a ratio of 1,4-addition to 1,2-addition of about 3.6:1.Among the residue of 1,4-addition of butadiene, the ratio of cis totrans double bonds is about 1.4:1. The weight percents of residues of1,2-addition of butadiene and 1,4-addition of butadiene, as well as theratio of cis to trans double bonds in the residue of 1,4-addition ofbutadiene, can be determined by ¹H NMR.

The composition comprises the radial block copolymer in an amount of 10to 40 weight percent, based on the total weight of the composition.Within this range, the radial block copolymer amount can be 15 to 35weight percent, specifically 20 to 30 weight percent.

In addition to the poly(phenylene ether) and the radial block copolymer,the composition comprises apolystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrene triblock copolymerhaving a polystyrene content based on the weight of the triblockcopolymer of 55 to 80 weight percent. Within the range of 55 to 80weight percent, the polystyrene content can be 60 to 75 weight percent.

The poly(ethylene-butylene) block of thepolystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrene triblock copolymer isderived from hydrogenation of the polybutadiene block of apolystyrene-polybutadiene-polystyrene triblock copolymer.

In some embodiments, the polystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrenetriblock copolymer excludes the residue of monomers other than styreneand butadiene. In these embodiments, it does not comprise grafts formedfrom these or any other monomers. It also consists of carbon andhydrogen atoms and therefore excludes heteroatoms.

Methods for preparing polystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrenetriblock copolymer are known in the art andpolystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrene triblock copolymers arecommercially available. Illustrative commercially availablepolystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrene triblock copolymersinclude KRATON A1535 H Polymer comprising 57 weight percent polystyreneand available from Kraton Performance Polymers Inc.; TUFTEC H1043comprising 67 weight percent polystyrene and available from Asahi KaseiElastomer; SEPTON 8104 comprising 60 weight polystyrene and availablefrom Kuraray; and SEPTON 8105 comprising 65 weight percent polystyreneand available from Kuraray. Mixtures of two of morepolystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrene triblock copolymers canbe used.

In some embodiments, the polystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrenetriblock copolymer has a polystyrene content of 60 to 75 weight percent,specifically 60 to 70 weight percent. Examples of such triblockcopolymers include TUFTEC H1043 from Asahi Kasei Elastomer, and SEPTON8104 and 8105 from Kuraray. In some embodiments, thepolystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrene triblock copolymer isselected from the group consisting of TUFTEC H1043, SEPTON 8105, andcombinations thereof. In some embodiments, thepolystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrene triblock copolymer isSEPTON 8105. In some embodiments, thepolystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrene triblock copolymer isTUFTEC H1043.

The composition comprises thepolystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrene triblock copolymer in anamount of 5 to 20 weight percent, based on the total weight of thecomposition. Within this range, thepolystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrene triblock copolymeramount can be 8 to 17 weight percent, specifically 10 to 14 weightpercent.

In addition to the poly(phenylene ether), the radial block copolymer,and the polystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrene triblockcopolymer, the composition comprises an organophosphate ester selectedfrom the group consisting of resorcinol bis(diphenyl phosphate),triphenyl phosphate, alkylated triphenyl phosphate, and combinationsthereof. The alkylated triphenyl phosphate can be C₁-C₆ alkyl groups,for example, methyl or isopropyl. In some embodiments, theorganophosphate ester is resorcinol bis(diphenyl phosphate) (CAS Reg.No. 57583-54-7). In some embodiments, the organophosphate ester istriphenyl phosphate (CAS Reg. No. 115-86-6). In some embodiments, theorganophosphate ester is isopropylated triphenyl phosphate (CAS Reg. No.68937-41-7). In some embodiments, the organophosphate ester is acombination of resorcinol bis(diphenyl phosphate) and triphenylphosphate. In some embodiments, the organophosphate ester is acombination of resorcinol bis(diphenyl phosphate) and isopropylatedtriphenyl phosphate. Methods of forming resorcinol bis(diphenylphosphate), triphenyl phosphate, and alkylated triphenyl phosphate areknown, and these compounds are commercially available from multiplesuppliers.

The composition comprises the organophosphate ester in an amount of 5 to20 weight percent, based on the total weight of the composition. Withinthis range, the organophosphate ester amount can be 7 to 17 weightpercent, specifically 9 to 15 weight percent.

In addition to the poly(phenylene ether), the radial block copolymer,the polystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene) polystyrene triblock copolymer,and the organophosphate ester, the composition comprises a hydrocarbonresin. Examples of hydrocarbon resins are aliphatic hydrocarbon resins,hydrogenated aliphatic hydrocarbon resins, aliphatic/aromatichydrocarbon resins, hydrogenated aliphatic/aromatic hydrocarbon resins,cycloaliphatic hydrocarbon resins, hydrogenated cycloaliphatic resins,cycloaliphatic/aromatic hydrocarbon resins, hydrogenatedcycloaliphatic/aromatic hydrocarbon resins, hydrogenated aromatichydrocarbon resins, terpene resins, hydrogenated terpene resins,terpene-phenol resins, rosins, and rosin esters, hydrogenated rosins androsin esters, and mixtures thereof. As used herein, “hydrogenated”, whenreferring to the hydrocarbon resin, includes fully, substantially, andpartially hydrogenated resins. Suitable aromatic resins include aromaticmodified aliphatic resins, aromatic modified cycloaliphatic resins, andhydrogenated aromatic hydrocarbon resins having an aromatic content of 1to 30 weight percent. Any of the above resins can be grafted with anunsaturated ester or anhydride using methods known in the art. Suchgrafting can provide enhanced properties to the resin.

Suitable hydrocarbon resins are commercially available and include, forexample, EMPR 100, 101, 102, 103, 104, 105, 106, 107, 108, 109, 110,116, 117, and 118 resins, and OPPERA resins, available from ExxonMobilChemical Company; ARKON P140, P125, P115, M115, and M135, and SUPERESTER rosin esters available from Arakawa Chemical Company of Japan;SYLVARES polyterpene resins, styrenated terpene resins and terpenephenolic resins available from Arizona Chemical Company; SYLVATAC andSYLVALITE rosin esters available from Arizona Chemical Company;NORSOLENE aliphatic aromatic resins available from Cray Valley;DERTOPHENE terpene phenolic resins and DERCOLYTE polyterpene resinsavailable from DRT Chemical Company; EASTOTAC resins, PICCOTAC resins,REGALITE and REGALREZ hydrogenated cycloaliphatic/aromatic resins, andPICCOLYTE and PERMALYN polyterpene resins, rosins, and rosin estersavailable from Eastman Chemical Company; WINGTACK resins available fromGoodyear Chemical Company; coumarone/indene resins available fromNeville Chemical Company; QUINTONE acid modified C5 resins, C5/C9resins, and acid-modified C5/C9 resins available from Nippon Zeon; andCLEARON hydrogenated terpene resins available from Yasuhara.

In some embodiments, the hydrocarbon resin comprises a hydrogenatedalicyclic hydrocarbon resin, a hydrogenated terpene resin, or acombination thereof. The hydrocarbon resin can have a softening point ofat least 120° C. measured according to ASTM E28. Specifically, thesoftening point can be 120 to 180° C., specifically 130 to 170° C., morespecifically 140 to 160° C. In some embodiments, the hydrocarbon resincomprises a hydrogenated alicyclic hydrocarbon resin having a softeningpoint of 120 to 135° C. An example of such a resin is ARKON P125 havinga softening point of about 125° C., available from Arakawa ChemicalCompany, In some embodiments, the hydrocarbon resin comprises ahydrogenated alicyclic hydrocarbon resin having a softening point of 135to 145° C. An example of such a resin is ARKON P140 having a softeningpoint of about 140° C., available from Arakawa Chemical Company, In someembodiments, the hydrocarbon resin comprises a hydrogenated terpeneresin having a softening point of 145 to 160° C. An example of such aresin is CLEARON P150 available from Yasuhara.

The composition comprises the hydrocarbon resin in an amount effectiveto provide the composition with a multiaxial impact strength of at least25 joules. In general, the hydrocarbon resin amount can range from 2 to10 weight percent. The specific amount will depend, in part, on theidentity of the hydrocarbon resin and can be determined by the skilledperson without undue experimentation. Generally, the amount can be lowerwhen the softening temperature of the hydrogenated terpene resin ishigher. For example, when the hydrocarbon resin is a hydrogenatedalicyclic hydrocarbon resin having a softening point of 120 to 135° C.,it can be used in an amount of 6 to 10 weight percent, specifically 7 to9 weight percent, based on the total weight of the composition. Asanother example, when the hydrocarbon resin is a hydrogenated alicyclichydrocarbon resin having a softening point of 135 to 145° C., it can beused in an amount of 4 to 10 weight percent, specifically 5 to 8 weightpercent, based on the total weight of the composition. As yet anotherexample, when the hydrocarbon resin is a hydrogenated terpene resinhaving a softening point of 145 to 160° C., it can be used in an amountof 2 to 10 weight percent, specifically 3 to 8 weight percent, morespecifically 3 to 6 weight percent, based on the total weight of thecomposition.

In addition to the poly(phenylene ether), the radial block copolymer,the polystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene) polystyrene triblock copolymer,the organophosphate ester, and the hydrocarbon resin, the compositioncomprises benzoin (CAS Reg. No. 119-53-9). The composition comprisesbenzoin in an amount of 0.05 to 2 weight percent, based on the totalweight of the composition. Within this range, the benzoin amount can be0.1 to 1 weight percent, specifically 0.2 to 0.6 weight percent.

The composition can, optionally, further comprise a trihydrocarbylphosphite. A trihydrocarbyl phosphite is a compound having the generalformula P(OR⁸)₃, wherein each occurrence of R⁸ is independently C₁-C₂₄hydrocarbyl. In some embodiments, the trihydrocarbyl phosphite is atrialkyl phosphite wherein each occurrence of R⁸ is independently C₁-C₂₄alkyl. One example of a trialkyl phosphite is tridecyl phosphite. Insome embodiments, the trihydrocarbyl phosphite is an aryl phosphite inwhich at least one occurrence of R⁸ is an unsubstituted or substitutedC₆-C₂₄ aryl. In some embodiments, the trihydrocarbyl phosphite is atriaryl phosphite in which each occurrence of R⁸ is independently anunsubstituted or substituted C₆-C₂₄ aryl. One example of a triarylphosphite is tris(2,4-di-tert-butylphenyl)phosphite. When present, thetrihydrocarbyl phosphite can be used in an amount of 0.1 to 2 weightpercent, specifically 0.3 to 0.6 weight percent, based on the totalweight of the composition.

When the trihydrocarbyl phosphite is tridecyl phosphite, it is presentat less than 0.5 weight percent, specifically less than or equal to 0.3weight percent, more specifically less than or equal to 0.1 weightpercent, based on the total weight of the composition. In someembodiments, the composition excludes tridecyl phosphite. In someembodiments, the composition excludes any trihydrocarbyl phosphite.

The composition can, optionally, further comprise one or more additivesknown in the thermoplastics art, as long as they do not substantiallydetract from the desired properties of the composition. For example, thecomposition can, optionally, further comprise an additive chosen fromstabilizers, mold release agents, lubricants, processing aids, dripretardants, nucleating agents, UV blockers, dyes, antioxidants,anti-static agents, blowing agents, mineral oil, metal deactivators,antiblocking agents, and the like, and combinations thereof. Whenpresent, such additives are typically used in a total amount of lessthan or equal to 5 weight percent, specifically less than or equal to 2weight percent, more specifically less than or equal to 1 weightpercent, based on the total weight of the composition.

In some embodiments, the composition comprises less than or equal to 25weight percent of total polyolefin, wherein total polyolefin consists ofpolyolefins and the polyolefin content of block copolymers comprising apoly(alkenyl aromatic) block and a polyolefin block. The compositioncomprises at least 2.25 weight percent total polyolefin, based on theminimum polystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene) polystyrene triblockcopolymer amount of 5 weight percent and the minimumpoly(ethylene-butylene) content of 45 percent in thepolystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene) polystyrene triblock copolymer. Insome embodiments, the composition comprises less than 22 weight percenttotal polyolefin. Reducing the content of total polyolefin improves theflame retardancy of the composition.

The composition can, optionally, minimize or exclude flame retardantsother than the organophosphate ester. For example, in some embodimentsthe composition comprises less than or equal to 0.5 weight percent(i.e., 0 to 0.5 weight percent) of metal dialkylphosphinate. Within thislimit, the metal dialkylphosphinate amount can be less than or equal to0.1 weight percent. In some embodiments, the composition excludes metaldialkylphosphinate. In some embodiments, the composition excludes anyflame retardant other than the organophosphate ester, which is preferredfor its flow-promoting properties.

The composition can, optionally, minimize or exclude polymers other thanthe poly(phenylene ether), the radial block copolymer, thepolystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene) polystyrene triblock copolymer, andthe hydrocarbon resin. For example, in some embodiments, the compositioncomprises less than or equal to 1 weight percent (i.e., 0 to 1 weightpercent) of any or all of homopolystyrenes, rubber-modifiedpolystyrenes, polyamides, polyolefins, and polyesters. Within thislimit, the maximum amount of any of these polymers can be 0.5 weightpercent, or 0.1 weight percent. In some embodiments, the compositionexcludes any of these polymers. In some embodiments, the compositionexcludes polymers other than the poly(phenylene ether), the radial blockcopolymer, the polystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene) polystyrene triblockcopolymer, and the hydrocarbon resin.

The composition minimizes or excludes fillers that detract from thedesired optical properties of the composition. Such fillers include, forexample, fibrous fillers (such as glass fibers), platy fillers (such astalc, clay, and mica), and nonreinforcing fillers (such as silica andalumina) Additional fillers, including those characterized as“reinforcements” are described in R. Gachter and H. Muller, Editors,“Plastics Additives Handbook; Stabilizers, Processing Aids,Plasticizers, Fillers, Reinforcements, Colorants for Thermoplastics, 3rdEdition”, New York: Hanser Publishers, 1990, in Chapter 9, “Fillers andReinforcements”, by H. P. Schlumpf. The composition comprises less thanor equal to 1 weight percent (i.e., 0 to 1 weight percent) of fillers,based on the total weight of the composition. Within this limit, themaximum filler amount can be 0.5 weight percent, or 0.1 weight percent.In some embodiments, the composition excludes fillers.

The composition can, optionally, minimize or exclude pigments thatdetract from the desired optical properties of the composition. In someembodiments, the composition comprises less than or equal to 0.5 weightpercent (i.e., 0 to 0.5 weight percent) of white pigment. Within thislimit, the maximum white pigment amount can be 0.1 weight percent. Insome embodiments, the composition excludes white pigment. In someembodiments, the composition comprises less than or equal to 0.5 weightpercent (i.e., 0 to 0.5 weight percent) of all pigments. Within thislimit, the maximum total amount of all pigments can be 0.1 weightpercent. In some embodiments, the composition excludes pigments.

In a very specific embodiment, the poly(phenylene ether) comprisespoly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene ether); the poly(phenylene ether) amountis 40 to 50 weight percent; the radial block copolymer amount is 20 to30 weight percent; the polystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrenetriblock copolymer has a polystyrene content based on the weight of 60to 75 weight percent; thepolystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrene triblock copolymeramount is 8 to 17 weight percent; the organophosphate ester isresorcinol bis(diphenyl phosphate); the organophosphate ester amount is7 to 17 weight percent; the hydrocarbon resin comprises a hydrogenatedterpene resin having a softening point of 145 to 160° C.; thehydrocarbon resin amount is 3 to 8 weight percent; the compositioncomprises less than or equal to 0.3 weight percent tridecyl phosphite;and the composition comprises less than or equal to 1 weight percent offillers. The composition can exhibit a multiaxial impact strength of atleast 45 joules, specifically 45 to 60 joules, measured at 23° C.according to ASTM D3763-08, a haze of less than or equal to 2 percent,specifically 2 to 10 percent, measured at 23° C. according to ASTMD1003-00 at a thickness of 3.2 millimeters, and a transmittance of atleast 80 percent, specifically 80 to 85 percent, measured at 23° C.according to ASTM D1003-00 at a thickness of 3.2 millimeters.

The composition can be prepared by melt-blending or melt-kneading theindividual components together. The melt-blending or melt-kneading canbe performed using common equipment such as ribbon blenders, Henschelmixers, Banbury mixers, drum tumblers, single-screw extruders,twin-screw extruders, multi-screw extruders, co-kneaders, and the like.For example, the present composition can be prepared by melt-blendingthe components in a twin-screw extruder at a temperature of 260 to 310°C., specifically 280 to 300° C. In some embodiments, the composition isformed by adding all components except for the radial block copolymer tothe feed throat of an extruder, and adding the radial block copolymervia an extruder port downstream of the feed throat and upstream of thedie.

The composition is useful for molding articles, including animal cages,sheet, film, ink cartridges, tubes, pipes, and pipe fittings. Suitablemethods of forming such articles include single layer and multilayersheet extrusion, injection molding, blow molding, film extrusion,profile extrusion, pultrusion, compression molding, thermoforming,pressure forming, hydroforming, vacuum forming, and the like.Combinations of the foregoing article fabrication methods can be used.

The invention includes at least the following embodiments.

Embodiment 1

A composition comprising: 30 to 60 weight percent of a poly(phenyleneether); 10 to 40 weight percent of a radial block copolymer of analkenyl aromatic monomer comprising styrene and a conjugated dienecomprising butadiene; wherein the radial block copolymer comprises 60 to70 weight percent of poly(alkenyl aromatic) content and has a numberaverage molecular weight of 50,000 to 70,000 atomic mass units; 5 to 20weight percent of a polystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrenetriblock copolymer having a polystyrene content based on the weight ofthe triblock copolymer of 55 to 80 weight percent; 5 to 20 weightpercent of an organophosphate ester selected from the group consistingof resorcinol bis(diphenyl phosphate), triphenyl phosphate, alkylatedtriphenyl phosphate, and combinations thereof; a hydrocarbon resinselected from the group consisting of hydrogenated alicyclic hydrocarbonresins, hydrogenated terpene resins, and combinations thereof; whereinthe hydrocarbon resin has a softening point of 120 to 180° C. measuredaccording to ASTM E28; wherein the hydrocarbon resin is present in anamount effective to provide the composition with a multiaxial impactstrength of at least 25 joules, measured at 23° C. according to ASTMD3763-08a; and 0.05 to 2 weight percent of benzoin; wherein thecomposition comprises less than 0.5 weight percent tridecyl phosphite;wherein the composition comprises less than or equal to 1 weight percentof fillers; and wherein all weight percents are based on the totalweight of the composition, unless a different weight basis is specified.

Embodiment 2

The composition of embodiment 1, exhibiting a multiaxial impact strengthof at least 25 joules, measured at 23° C. according to ASTM D3763-08, ahaze of less than or equal to 15 percent, measured at 23° C. accordingto ASTM D1003-00 at a thickness of 3.2 millimeters, and a transmittanceof at least 75 percent, measured at 23° C. according to ASTM D1003-00 ata thickness of 3.2 millimeters.

Embodiment 3

The composition of embodiment 1 or 2, excluding tridecyl phosphite.

Embodiment 4

The composition of any of embodiments 1-3, wherein thepolystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrene triblock copolymer has apolystyrene content based on the weight of 60 to 75 weight percent.

Embodiment 5

The composition of any of embodiments 1-4, wherein the hydrocarbon resinis a hydrogenated alicyclic hydrocarbon resin having a softening pointof 120 to 135° C. measured according to ASTM E28 and is used in anamount of 6 to 10 weight percent.

Embodiment 6

The composition of any of embodiments 1-4, wherein the hydrocarbon resinis a hydrogenated alicyclic hydrocarbon resin having a softening pointof 135 to 145° C. measured according to ASTM E28 and is used in anamount of 4 to 10 weight percent.

Embodiment 7

The composition of any of embodiments 1-4, wherein the hydrocarbon resincomprises a hydrogenated terpene resin having a softening point of 145to 160° C. measured according to ASTM E28 and is used in an amount of 2to 10 weight percent.

Embodiment 8

The composition of any of embodiments 1-7, comprising less than or equalto 0.5 weight percent of a poly(phenylene ether)-polysiloxane blockcopolymer.

Embodiment 9

The composition of any of embodiments 1-8, comprising less than or equalto 25 weight percent of total polyolefin, wherein total polyolefinconsists of polyolefins and the polyolefin content of block copolymerscomprising a poly(alkenyl aromatic) block and a polyolefin block.

Embodiment 10

The composition of any of embodiments 1-9, comprising less than or equalto 0.5 weight percent of metal dialkylphosphinate.

Embodiment 11

The composition of any of embodiments 1-10, comprising less than orequal to 1 weight percent of each of polyamides, polyolefins, andpolyesters.

Embodiment 12

The composition of embodiment 1, wherein the poly(phenylene ether)comprises poly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene ether); wherein thepoly(phenylene ether) amount is 40 to 50 weight percent; wherein theradial block copolymer amount is 20 to 30 weight percent; wherein thepolystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrene triblock copolymer has apolystyrene content based on the weight of 60 to 75 weight percent;wherein the polystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrene triblockcopolymer amount is 8 to 17 weight percent; wherein the organophosphateester is resorcinol bis(diphenyl phosphate); wherein the organophosphateester amount is 7 to 17 weight percent; wherein the hydrocarbon resincomprises a hydrogenated terpene resin having a softening point of 145to 160° C.; wherein the hydrocarbon resin amount is 3 to 8 weightpercent; wherein the composition comprises less than or equal to 0.3weight percent tridecyl phosphite; and wherein the composition comprisesless than or equal to 1 weight percent of fillers.

Embodiment 12a

A composition comprising: 40 to 50 weight percent of apoly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene ether); 20 to 30 weight percent of aradial block copolymer of styrene and butadiene; wherein the radialblock copolymer comprises 60 to 70 weight percent of polystyrene contentand has a number average molecular weight of 50,000 to 70,000 atomicmass units; 8 to 17 weight percent of apolystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrene triblock copolymer;wherein the polystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrene triblockcopolymer having a polystyrene content of 60 to 75 weight percent basedon the weight of the polystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrenetriblock copolymer; 7 to 17 weight percent of resorcinol bis(diphenylphosphate); 3 to 8 weight percent of a hydrogenated terpene resin havinga softening point of 145 to 160° C.; and 0.05 to 2 weight percent ofbenzoin; wherein the composition comprises less than or equal to 0.3weight percent tridecyl phosphite; wherein the composition comprisesless than or equal to 1 weight percent of fillers; and wherein allweight percents are based on the total weight of the composition, unlessa different weight basis is specified.

Embodiment 13

The composition of embodiment 12 or 12a, exhibiting a multiaxial impactstrength of at least 45 joules, measured at 23° C. according to ASTMD3763-08, a haze of less than or equal to 5 percent, measured at 23° C.according to ASTM D1003-00 at a thickness of 3.2 millimeters, and atransmittance of at least 80 percent, measured at 23° C. according toASTM D1003-00 at a thickness of 3.2 millimeters.

Embodiment 14

An article comprising the composition of any of embodiments 1-13.

All ranges disclosed herein are inclusive of the endpoints, and theendpoints are independently combinable with each other. Each rangedisclosed herein constitutes a disclosure of any point or sub-rangelying within the disclosed range.

The invention is further illustrated by the following non-limitingexamples.

Examples 1-6, Comparative Examples 1-3

These examples illustrate the desirable balance of stiffness, heatresistance, ductility, and optical properties provided by thecomposition. Components used in these examples are summarized in Table1.

TABLE 1 Component Description PPE 0.46 Poly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenyleneether), CAS Reg. No. 24938-67-8, having an intrinsic viscosity of about0.46 deciliter per gram as measured in chloroform at 25° C.; obtained asPPO 646 from SABIC Innovative Plastics. Benzoin Benzoin(2-hydroxy-2-phenylacetophenone), CAS Reg. No. 119-53-9, obtained fromSinbiotic S.A. DE c.v. (Mexico). HTP Hydrogenated homopolymer of1-methyl-4-(1-methylethenyl)- cyclohexene (hydrogenated terpenepolymer), CAS Reg. No. 106168-39-2; obtained as CLEARON P150 fromYasuhara Chemical. RBC KK38 Radial block copolymer of styrene andbutadiene having a polystyrene content of about 68 weight percent and amelt flow rate of about 9 grams per 10 minutes measured at 200° C. and 5kilograms load; obtained as K-RESIN KK38 from Chevron Phillips ChemicalCompany. SEBS H1043 Polystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrenetriblock copolymer, CAS Reg. No. 66070-58-4, having a polystyrenecontent of about 67 weight percent; obtained as TUFTEC H1043 fromAKelastomer. RDP Resorcinol bis(diphenyl phosphate), CAS Reg. No.57583-54-7; obtained as CR-733S from Daihachi Chemical., as FYROLFLEXRDP from Supresta LLC, or as REOFOS RDP from Great Lakes Chemical Co.Ltd. BPADP Bisphenol A bis(diphenyl phosphate), CAS Reg. No.181028-79-5; obtained as CR-741 from Daihachi Chemical, as FYROLFLEX BDPfrom Supresta LLC, or as REOFOS BAPP from Great Lakes Chemical Co. Ltd.TPP Triphenyl phosphate, CAS Reg. No. 115-86-6; obtained from AkzoNobel.

Inventive and comparative compositions are summarized in Table 2, whereall component amounts are expressed in weight percent based on the totalweight of the composition. The compositions were prepared fromindividual components as follows. Components were compounded in a Werner& Pfleiderer twin-screw extruder having a 30 millimeter internaldiameter and operating with barrel temperatures of 240° C./260° C./280°C./290° C./290° C. from feed throat to die. All components were added atthe feed throat of the extruder, except for radial block copolymer,which was added downstream at barrel 7 of 10. The extrudate waspelletized, and the pellets dried for a minimum of 2 hours at 90° C.prior to subsequent use for injection molding. The compositions wereinjection molded into articles for physical testing. Injection moldingwas conducted on a Van Dorn 120T injection molding machine using barreltemperatures of 530-600° F. (266.7-315.6° C.) and a mold temperature of190° F. (87.7° C.).

Flexural modulus values, expressed in units of megapascals, weredetermined at 23° C. according ASTM D790-07e1, using bar cross-sectionaldimensions of 3.2 millimeters by 12.7 millimeters, a support span of50.8 millimeters, a test speed of 1.27 millimeters/minute (0.05inches/minute), and five specimens per composition. Heat deflectiontemperature values, expressed in units of degrees centigrade, weredetermined according to ASTM D648-07, using bar cross-sectionaldimensions of 3.2 millimeters by 12.7 millimeters, an edgewise testdirection, a support span of 100 millimeters, a load of 1.82megapascals, a heating rate of 2.0° C./minute, a deflection at readingof 0.25 millimeters, and three specimens per composition. Notched Izodimpact strength values, expressed in units of joules/meter, weredetermined at 23° C. according to ASTM D256-08, using barcross-sectional dimensions of 3.2 millimeters by 12.7 millimeters, amethod A notch with a notch angle of 45° and a notch radius of 0.25millimeters and a 10.16 millimeter depth of material under the notch, ahammer energy of 2.71 joules (2 foot-pounds), and five specimens percomposition. Multi-axial impact strength values, expressed in units ofjoules, were determined at 23° C. according to ASTM D3763-08 using atest velocity of 3.3 meters per second, a specimen thickness of 3.2millimeters, a clamp hole diameter of 76 millimeters, a dart diameter of12.7 millimeters, and 5 specimens per composition. Tensile elongationvalues, expressed in units of percent, and tensile strength at yieldvalues, expressed in units of megapascals, were determined at 23° C.according to ASTM D638-08, using a Type I bar, a bar thickness of 3.2millimeters, a gage length of 50 millimeters, a grip separation of 115millimeters, a testing speed of 50 millimeters/minute, and 5 specimensper composition. Transmittance and haze values, each expressed in unitsof percent, were determined at 23° C. according to ASTM D1003-00 at athickness of 3.2 millimeters.

The property results in Table 2 show that Examples 1-3 (with RDP) and4-6 (with TPP) exhibit a desirable balance of stiffness, heatresistance, ductility, and optical properties, whereas ComparativeExamples 1-3 (with BPADP) are substantially deficient in multiaxialimpact strength.

TABLE 2 C. C. C. Ex. 1 Ex. 2 Ex. 3 Ex. 1 Ex. 2 Ex. 3 Ex. 4 Ex. 5 Ex. 6COMPONENTS PPE 0.46 45.4 45.2 45.0 45.4 45.2 45.0 45.4 45.2 45.0 Benzoin0.1 0.3 0.5 0.1 0.3 0.5 0.1 0.3 0.5 HTP 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 5 RBC KK38 25 2525 25 25 25 25 25 25 SEBS H1043 12.5 12.5 12.5 12.5 12.5 12.5 12.5 12.512.5 RDP 12 12 12 0 0 0 0 0 0 BPADP 0 0 0 12 12 12 0 0 0 TPP 0 0 0 0 0 012 12 12 PROPERTIES Flex. mod. (MPa) 2130 2180 2180 2350 2340 2330 20902080 2070 HDT (° C.) 76.5 76.7 76.7 82.6 83.2 82.4 77.1 76.6 75.5Notched Izod (J/m) 31.2 28.0 30.2 29.1 27.8 29.3 25.9 28.2 25.8 MAI (J)55.5 42.6 54.6 12.9 7.20 4.98 51.5 49.0 49.9 Tens. elong. (%) 33 45 3334 27 25 61 45 51 Tens. strength (MPa) 56.4 56.8 56.8 61.8 61.6 61.652.2 51.8 52.2 Transmittance (%) 77.4 80.1 80.9 80.4 82.0 82.1 77.5 81.382.6 Correlated Haze 5.6 4.3 4.0 3.7 4.0 4.3 4.0 3.7 3.3

1. A composition comprising: 30 to 60 weight percent of a poly(phenyleneether); 10 to 40 weight percent of a radial block copolymer of analkenyl aromatic monomer comprising styrene and a conjugated dienecomprising butadiene; wherein the radial block copolymer comprises 60 to70 weight percent of poly(alkenyl aromatic) content and has a numberaverage molecular weight of 50,000 to 70,000 atomic mass units; 5 to 20weight percent of a polystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrenetriblock copolymer having a polystyrene content based on the weight ofthe triblock copolymer of 55 to 80 weight percent; 5 to 20 weightpercent of an organophosphate ester selected from the group consistingof resorcinol bis(diphenyl phosphate), triphenyl phosphate, alkylatedtriphenyl phosphate, and combinations thereof; a hydrocarbon resinselected from the group consisting of hydrogenated alicyclic hydrocarbonresins, hydrogenated terpene resins, and combinations thereof; whereinthe hydrocarbon resin has a softening point of 120 to 180° C. measuredaccording to ASTM E28; wherein the hydrocarbon resin is present in anamount effective to provide the composition with a multiaxial impactstrength of at least 25 joules, measured at 23° C. according to ASTMD3763-08a; and 0.05 to 2 weight percent of benzoin; wherein thecomposition comprises less than 0.5 weight percent tridecyl phosphite;wherein the composition comprises less than or equal to 1 weight percentof fillers; and wherein all weight percents are based on the totalweight of the composition, unless a different weight basis is specified.2. The composition of claim 1, exhibiting a multiaxial impact strengthof at least 25 joules, measured at 23° C. according to ASTM D3763-08, ahaze of less than or equal to 15 percent, measured at 23° C. accordingto ASTM D1003-00 at a thickness of 3.2 millimeters, and a transmittanceof at least 75 percent, measured at 23° C. according to ASTM D1003-00 ata thickness of 3.2 millimeters.
 3. The composition of claim 1, excludingtridecyl phosphite.
 4. The composition of claim 1, wherein thepolystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrene triblock copolymer has apolystyrene content based on the weight of 60 to 75 weight percent. 5.The composition of claim 1, wherein the hydrocarbon resin is ahydrogenated alicyclic hydrocarbon resin having a softening point of 120to 135° C. measured according to ASTM E28 and is used in an amount of 6to 10 weight percent.
 6. The composition of claim 1, wherein thehydrocarbon resin is a hydrogenated alicyclic hydrocarbon resin having asoftening point of 135 to 145° C. measured according to ASTM E28 and isused in an amount of 4 to 10 weight percent.
 7. The composition of claim1, wherein the hydrocarbon resin comprises a hydrogenated terpene resinhaving a softening point of 145 to 160° C. measured according to ASTME28 and is used in an amount of 2 to 10 weight percent.
 8. Thecomposition of claim 1, comprising less than or equal to 0.5 weightpercent of a poly(phenylene ether)-polysiloxane block copolymer.
 9. Thecomposition of claim 1, comprising less than or equal to 25 weightpercent of total polyolefin, wherein total polyolefin consists ofpolyolefins and the polyolefin content of block copolymers comprising apoly(alkenyl aromatic) block and a polyolefin block.
 10. The compositionof claim 1, comprising less than or equal to 0.5 weight percent of metaldialkylphosphinate.
 11. The composition of claim 1, comprising less thanor equal to 1 weight percent of each of polyamides, polyolefins, andpolyesters.
 12. The composition of claim 1, wherein the poly(phenyleneether) comprises poly(2,6-dimethyl-1,4-phenylene ether); wherein thepoly(phenylene ether) amount is 40 to 50 weight percent; wherein theradial block copolymer amount is 20 to 30 weight percent; wherein thepolystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrene triblock copolymer has apolystyrene content based on the weight of 60 to 75 weight percent;wherein the polystyrene-poly(ethylene-butylene)-polystyrene triblockcopolymer amount is 8 to 17 weight percent; wherein the organophosphateester is resorcinol bis(diphenyl phosphate); wherein the organophosphateester amount is 7 to 17 weight percent; wherein the hydrocarbon resincomprises a hydrogenated terpene resin having a softening point of 145to 160° C.; wherein the hydrocarbon resin amount is 3 to 8 weightpercent; wherein the composition comprises less than or equal to 0.3weight percent tridecyl phosphite; and wherein the composition comprisesless than or equal to 1 weight percent of fillers.
 13. The compositionof claim 12, exhibiting a multiaxial impact strength of at least 45joules, measured at 23° C. according to ASTM D3763-08, a haze of lessthan or equal to 5 percent, measured at 23° C. according to ASTMD1003-00 at a thickness of 3.2 millimeters, and a transmittance of atleast 80 percent, measured at 23° C. according to ASTM D1003-00 at athickness of 3.2 millimeters.
 14. An article comprising the compositionof claim 1.